Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 21 Apr 1999

Vol. 503 No. 4

Written Answers. - Computer Programmes.

David Stanton

Question:

123 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children the agencies under the auspices of his Department which have declared themselves to be year 2000 compliant; the agencies, if any, yet to make such a declaration; when he expects such a declaration, if any, to be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10413/99]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen):

My Department, in conjunction with the various agencies under my aegis, is working to ensure that there is no risk to the health and safety of health service clients and staff and that there is minimal disruption to services arising from the year 2000 problem. I also anticipate a significantly increased demand for a range of health services around the time of the new millennium. Accordingly, I am treating the year 2000 problem more as a business issue than a technical issue.

There is a major programme in place in my Department and in the various health agencies under my aegis to ensure that these objectives are met. One major aspect of the programme involves preparations of a technical nature by ensuring that systems and items of equipment are made year 2000 compliant or year 2000 ready as appropriate. I am also making arrangements to ensure that comprehensive contingency plans are put in place as an added safety measure. Another aspect involves appropriate measures to ensure the continuity of supply of essential goods and services over the millennium period. It is also necessary to ensure that all the necessary elements are in place so that the anticipated service demands over the millennium changeover period can be met.

Work is ongoing in all of these areas in the agencies under the auspices of my Department and has not yet been completed. However, I am satisfied that my objectives of ensuring that there is no risk to the health and safety of clients and staff and that there is minimal disruption to services will be met.